BY ROCHELLE SCHLORTT
Catholic Charities has continued most services with little disruption during COVID-19 thanks to the strength of this community and through the effective use of technology. Limited reopening of facilities is already taking place, and for the past several weeks, in-person appointments have begun at all facilities.
Through strategic planning and collaboration, anyone in need received a sack lunch at the Marian House Kitchen every day. Some folks on the west side received a hot lunch through a collaboration between Catholic Charities, the Salvation Army, and Fuel Church which was delivered via a mobile kitchen. Those who are homeless and experiencing COVID-19 symptoms received a sack breakfast and lunch at the City’s Isolation Shelter. For so many of our most vulnerable community members, this daily meal is more important than ever and remains a starting point for helping them get back on the path to stability.
Resuming congregant, hot meal service at the Marian House is planned for June 8 contingent on Governor Polis’ restaurant order and receiving the necessary equipment. The service will look very different from pre-COVID-19 dining. Everyone must wash their hands upon entering and wear a face covering. The reconfigured, socially-distanced dining room will seat 36 people, plus 2 – 3 families in the family dining room, for a 15-minute, pre-plated meal, with 5-minute sanitation breaks to keep the health and safety of clients, volunteers, and staff as a top priority. To-go meals will continue for those who do not wish to wait, cannot be served during one of the seatings, or feel uncomfortable in this renewed group setting.
Procedures have been put in place to protect staff, clients, and volunteers in all aspects of our services. At each entrance of our facilities, tables with antibacterial lotion, gloves, and masks are available and required for entry. Plexiglas dividers are used during appointments with case managers and at reception and information desks. Volunteers wear gloves and face coverings, and social distance while preparing the meal.
The SET Clinic has also resumed operations at the Marian House, providing medical assistance to those we serve. They are open M – F for basic care; the Nurse Practitioner is available every Tuesday; and an MD is available every other Wednesday. The Penrose-St. Francis Community of Care Nurse is back serving clients M – Th, 10 am – 2 pm. We are OPEN and READY TO SERVE.
Rochelle Schlort is the Chief Communications Officer for Catholic Charities of Central Colorado.
